Principal's Welcome

Dear Peres Families,

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! We are thrilled to begin another year of growth, learning, and community at Peres K–8. Whether you are returning or new to Peres, please know that you are welcome here and your child belongs here. We are proud to serve a diverse school community where every student is seen, heard, and valued.

Our mission is to create a learning environment where all students feel safe, included, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. This year, we are committed to ensuring that every student has access to high-quality, grade-level instruction, meaningful enrichment, and social-emotional support.

 

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📅 Please Review Our Updated School Schedule

To better support our students and families, we’ve made some updates to the bell schedule. Please review the chart below to ensure a smooth start to your day:

🔔 Please Note: The first week of school (August 19–22) will follow a minimum day dismissal schedule for all grades.

Note: Students in grades 6–8 should not be on campus before 8:25 AM.

 

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📈 Our Goals for 2025–2026

• 93% Daily Attendance: We are aiming for at least 93% of our students to attend school every single day. Consistent attendance is key to academic success, social growth, and confidence. Please support your child by making attendance a priority.
   
• 100% Family Engagement on ParentSquare: ParentSquare is our primary communication tool for sharing updates, events, teacher messages, and urgent alerts. All families should activate their ParentSquare account. If you need support with activation or updates to your contact info, call Ms. Rosa at 510-542-8269.

 

• Strong Start with Our Student & Family Handbook: Please read the Peres K–8 Student/Family Handbook carefully. It includes essential information on school policies, expectations, the uniform dress code, attendance, cell phone use, and our shared commitment to an anti-racist, inclusive learning environment.

 

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👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Partnership & Reminders

We believe schools thrive when families are engaged and empowered. This year, we are excited to welcome parent and community volunteers back on campus! Here’s what you need to know:

• ✅ Volunteer Check-In Required: All approved volunteers must check in at the front office.
   
• 📲 New Volunteer System: Per WCCUSD policy, all volunteers must apply through Verkada, our new volunteer screening platform. Volunteers will be required to show a QR code from Verkada upon arrival.
   
• 📋 Annual Forms: Please complete your annual required forms before the first day of school. Forms are available at: https://wccusd.powerschool.com/public under the “Forms” link.
   
• 🚫 End-of-Day Dismissals: As a reminder, we will not dismiss students during the last 20 minutes of the school day. Please plan appointments accordingly to avoid disruptions to learning and routines.

 

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We know that a strong start leads to a strong year. Please take time to:

• Ensure your child gets to school on time every day
• Review the bell schedule and expectations
• Activate and check your ParentSquare account regularly
• Read and discuss the handbook with your student
• Complete your PowerSchool forms before the first day
• Apply early if you're planning to volunteer
   

Let’s make 2025–2026 our best year yet! We are honored to partner with you.

With gratitude and excitement,

Colette West, M.Ed
Principal, Peres K–8 School